Abnormal sensation during total body irradiation: a prospective observational study

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Radiation Oncology
• Radiotherapy Physics

Background:

• Light flashes and odors are known phenomena during radiotherapy.
• Previous studies reported 55% of patients observing light flashes and 27% sensing odors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the incidence and characteristics of light flashes and odors during total body irradiation (TBI).

Main Methods:

• A prospective observational study was conducted on 32 patients receiving TBI between January 2019 and October 2021.
• Patients completed a survey checklist to report light flash and odor experiences during TBI.
• Sensory phenomena were examined using methods consistent with prior research.

Main Results:

• 44% of patients (14 out of 32) reported sensing light flashes during TBI.
• 44% of patients (14 out of 32) reported sensing odors during TBI.
• Reported light colors included yellow, white, and blue; odors included plastic, ozone, and bleach.

Conclusions:

• Light flashes and odors are experienced by 44% of patients undergoing TBI.
• The study documented various types and intensities of sensory phenomena during TBI.
• Findings contribute to understanding patient-reported outcomes in TBI.